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New York reports decline in rat population

New York's sanitation department has noted a decrease in rat sightings and is seeing early successes in its campaign.

29 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: New York reports decline in rat population — Archive photoPhoto: DanielHerzberg · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

New York's sanitation department reported initial successes in combating the city's rat population. For 19 consecutive months, the city has observed a decline in reported rat sightings compared to the same month in the previous year. This information was released on Saturday.

So far in 2023, there have been 10,945 reports of rats. In the same period last year, there were 13,740 reports, indicating a significant decline. City officials attribute this development to various measures under their so-called 'Trash Revolution.'

The campaign includes the introduction of sturdier garbage bins instead of conventional trash bags to combat the food sources available to rats. Reports indicate that these new strategies have contributed to a reduction in rat sightings.

The decrease in rat sightings is a positive sign for many residents, as these pests not only cause inconvenience but can also transmit potentially infectious diseases. New York authorities aim to build on these successes further.

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